1970 Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Estate

The 1970 Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinctly ferrous, savory wine. Iron, cedar, tobacco, herbs, dried cherries, game and smoke are some of the signatures. Deep, powerful and explosive, this super-classic, old school Cabernet Sauvignon is simply fabulous. The 1970 is a decidedly rustic, burly Monte Bello, but it is also fascinating to taste from a historical perspective. With time in the glass, the 1970 gets better and better, even if this is not the most pristine example I have tasted. Ridge's longtime vineyard manager David Gates adds that Paul Draper initially wanted the 1970 to be served at the Judgment of Paris, and that if it had been, it would have won. Steven Spurrier ultimately chose the 1971, and Ridge placed fifth. The 1970 needs a lot of air, but once it opens up, it is superb.